Military officials confirmed Tuesday that four soldiers from a specialized unit lost their lives during an overnight mission. The fallen were identified as Captain Yehontan Joni Keren, from Moledet; Staff Sergeant Nisim Meytal, from Hadera; Staff Sergeant Aviv Gilboa, from Neve Tzuf; and Staff Sergeant Naor Haimov, from Rosh Ha'Ayin.
All of the KIAs were from the elite Multi-Dimensional Unit, Unit 888. The incident, which military sources say involved an explosion inside a building complex, also left one soldier with serious injuries. Full details of the operation remain classified pending completion of an initial investigation and family notifications.
Gilboa, a resident of the Neve Tzuf community in the Binyamin region, is survived by his parents, Maoz and Nechama, and five siblings, including his twin sister, Tal.
"Each loss cuts deeply into the heart of our nation," Binyamin Regional Council Head Israel Gantz said in a statement. "Aviv represented the best of us – born to a family steeped in values, the Gilboas, who showed remarkable resilience in rebuilding their lives in Neve Tzuf after leaving Amona. Our entire community mourns his heroic sacrifice and stands with his family. His loss only strengthens our determination to prevail."
Head Rabbi Eliyahu Mali of the Yafo Hesder Yeshiva, where Gilboa pursued his religious studies, described him as an exceptional young man. "Aviv possessed a rare combination of humility and dedication. Though quiet by nature, his impact was profound – whether in theological studies, Talmudic discourse, or strengthening bonds with his fellow students."
The rabbi added, "He embodied the spirit of service, always first to volunteer when the yeshiva needed help. Aviv led through quiet action rather than words. His thoughtful presence touched everyone around him. When duty called, he felt compelled to answer, following his conscience into full military service. Yet he never lost his special connection to our religious community and his fellow students."
